Wednesday, March 14, 2012

Randy Hoffmans Velo-Manx KTT Ahrma racer.

Randy with his Velo-Manx at Roebling Road, 2012

One of the most intriguing motorcycles to hit the vintage racing circuit this year is without a doubt, Randy Hoffmans Featherbed framed 49 KTT Velocette. With a similar bevel-drive overhead-cam set up as the Manx, it seems like a perfect fit, though I haven't seen another one like this anywhere. While in Savanah Georgia for the AHRMA season opener I had a chance to hang out with Randy and shoot some pictures of his bike. After a couple laps he came in with clutch problems. If anyone is familiar with the Velo clutch, they'll know the 20 spring, oddly designed set up as a real tedious lesson in tinkering. Fortunately, Velo expert Dave Roper was on hand to help sort out the issues. Though he ended up not competing that weekend, Randy got a feel for what the bike needed after it's 20 some year hibernation. Little is known about the motorcycles origin other than who he bought it from (anonymous) and said seller knew little about the bikes history either. As info comes in, it will be posted to Smoke and Throttle. For now, check out these specs and drool over the pics!